I've had mine airing outside for a week due to strong chemical odor - anyone else experience this? Would not let cats near it unless it clears up.
14430
I recently purchased one of these and also experienced a strong chemical odor after unwrapping the plastic covering. I 'aired' it out for two weeks in a spare room before allowing my cats to use it. They have a choice of using the 'old' scratching post or this new SmartCat post; they really like the new one! Although I found the sticker on the bottom of the product that states that the amount of formaldehyde used in the product is within guidelines, I was concerned with the lingering odor. (I've tried to reduce or eliminate 'chemical-based' products from my home; animals are especially sensitive to pollutants.) I contacted the company and was told that if I was still unhappy with the product that they would replace it immediately. The 'customer service' was great and my questions were answered satisfactorily. It seems that the factory where this scratching post is manufactured is supposed to wait a specific amount of time before packaging, in order to allow lingering odors to dissipate; apparently, that wasn't done in this case. I like that the scratching post is centered on the base, and that the base isn't covered with carpeting. It was easy to assemble and seems to be very sturdy.
14431
I don't remember if I noticed anything when I got it, but probably not. I just got up close to mine to see if there's any odor now, but all I smell is the sisal. How annoying for you!
14432
Mine (I bought 2) did "smell new". But the odor went away in a day or so. . .
14433
Slight wood finish or plastic odour when opened the box, but couldn't smell anything after a couple of days (never took it outside). Cats didn't mind, especially after I rubbed catnip into the sides--it was like they read the manual of what to do with this thing :)
14434
I didn't notice that myself - there was a slight odor (newness) at first that I didn't notice after the first day- but I have a heavy duty air cleaner on at all times because of my allergies so not sure if that helped.
14435
I bought mine years ago but do not recall any offensive odor, my cat was interested in it before I even put it together. Perhaps contacting the manufacturer and asking if they might know what the cause of the odor is would help.
14436
I ordered two posts and neither had a discernible smell other than a slight "newness" odor that went away quickly. I've had chronic problems with both my cats regarding where they scratch, but they use this post without hesitation. I highly recommend it.
415568
I have cats and placed this unit near their litter boxes. I have it set on the low/quiet setting 24/7. If I can smell any odors, then I place it on the medium setting for a day or so.
2181033
I've had it for about 4 months with no issues. There is usually only an odor when its been used, waiting to cycle. Not sure if it's litter related but I have 2 cats & use Arm & Hammer Clump & Seal litter, it works great. Could there be feces stuck somewhere inside that needs to cleaned out... Good luck!
700197
I would suggest keeping your cat out of house for at least a week after using. Iy can harm them if they ingest it or get it on thier paws.The odor is strong. Also if you use it repeat a few times then shampoo carpet with super HOT water. Good luck I know how bad fleas can get. Once out of control.
1038466
I have a horrible odor coming from our fan. Did you find out what was causing it? We bought ours about the same time you posted this?
788440
Leave it out in the air...Mother Nature has her way of cleansing bad odors quickly. I didn't have an odorproblem with my case but I would do the above if I did. Good luck!
727478
The unit I bought definitely puts off a plastic chemical smelling odor and it has not gone away. I have 3 other heaters that are different brands and none smell like this. I am going to get rid of this model and replace it.
137797
I wish I could help you concerning the odor. I never opened the one I bought up. It was a replacement for someone in the family. I accidentally Machine WASHED hers and it Ruined it! Don't wash it, take it to the cleaners and ask them is my suggestion.
1474797
mine had an odor that disappeared in a few hours. try using some mild soap and water and air dry
842495
The smell is bad, but it goes away quickly in a well ventilated area. My suggestion would be to fluff it daily and turn it over daily until the smell dissipates.
1190094
I did not detect any strong odor, but if I had, I would've wiped it down with a small amount of Lysol mixed with warm water. I would've let it air for a few hours outdoors.
924798
Mine didn't have an odor that I recall.. If it did, it went away real quick. Anything new and especially with plastic will have some slight odor but should go away as it airs out.
1021844
I just got mine out to check. I have a pretty good sense of smell and mine had no odor. Sometimes soaking it submersed in vinegar for a few days will clear the smell. Good luck!
904639
Mine just came and it has a horrendous chemical smell. Will update in a week or two and let you know if it persists.
707525
It's probably the filter. You might need to buy a new one. I know they say it will last a lifetime but after you wash them if they don't dry fast enough they smell horrible. This happened to me recently. It was really humid and the filter didnt dry very well.... I was desperate and put it back in the vacuum to use it. Bad mistake. Every time I turned on the vacuum it made the whole house stink!
1094780
No, we didn't but opened it outdoors. You might try Nok-Out Odor Eliminator and/or a water sealer to help with the odor.
2170603
Yes, I have two cats and the litter is in a closet. I keep the filter outside the closet where there is an outlet and keep the filter on medium or high. As long as I change the litter 2 to 3 times a week it helps. Without the filter, there is still a smell with the same. Changing schedule.